Decisive: meaning, definitions and examples

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decisive

 

[dɪˈsaɪsɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a situation

settling an issue; producing a definite result.

Synonyms

conclusive, conclusive, definitive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decisive

This word is best used when describing someone who makes clear, confident decisions quickly and effectively, or when an action brings about a definite outcome.

  • Her decisive leadership helped the team finish the project on time.
  • The battle was decisive in ending the conflict.
conclusive

This word is appropriate when describing evidence or arguments that are so strong and clear that they leave no room for doubt or further discussion.

  • The DNA test results were conclusive, proving his innocence.
  • There is conclusive proof that the earth orbits the sun.
definitive

This word is used to describe something that is the most authoritative or complete of its kind, often used for final versions or comprehensive statements.

  • The Oxford English Dictionary is considered the definitive guide to English vocabulary.
  • His book is the definitive work on the history of jazz music.

Examples of usage

  • His decisive actions saved the company from bankruptcy.
  • She made a decisive move that changed the course of the negotiation.
Context #2 | Adjective

character

having or showing the ability to make decisions quickly and effectively.

Synonyms

determined, firm, resolute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decisive

Used when someone is able to make decisions quickly and effectively, often in a critical situation.

  • Her decisive action during the crisis saved lives.
  • He was known for his decisive leadership.
determined

Used when someone shows a strong will to achieve something, despite difficulties or opposition.

  • She was determined to finish the project on time.
  • Despite the setbacks, he remained determined to succeed.
resolute

Used when someone is admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering in their decisions or actions.

  • They are resolute in their fight for justice.
  • His resolute stance on the issue won him many supporters.
firm

Used when someone is showing strength, determination, or resoluteness, often in the face of opposition.

  • He gave a firm response to the accusations.
  • She has a firm grip on the company's policies.

Examples of usage

  • He is known for his decisive leadership style.
  • She is a decisive manager who doesn't hesitate to take action.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'decisivus,' meaning 'able to cut off,' highlighting the idea of making clear choices.
  • It first appeared in English in the late 15th century, initially used to refer to actions that ended disputes.

Psychology

  • Decisiveness is linked to self-confidence, as confident individuals are more likely to make swift decisions.
  • Studies show that being decisive can reduce anxiety, since prolonged decision-making often leads to overthinking and stress.

Leadership

  • Effective leaders are often characterized by their decisiveness, as it instills trust and direction for their teams.
  • In crisis situations, decisiveness is crucial; leaders must act quickly to navigate challenges.

Pop Culture

  • Decisive characters in movies, such as military leaders or detectives, are often portrayed as effective problem-solvers.
  • Famous quotes about decision-making, like 'The only thing worse than making a decision is not making one,' highlight the value of being decisive.

Education

  • Teaching children to be decisive helps them develop problem-solving skills at a young age.
  • Encouraging students to make choices in learning can enhance their engagement and ownership of their education.

Translations

Translations of the word "decisive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decisivo

🇮🇳 निर्णायक

🇩🇪 entscheidend

🇮🇩 menentukan

🇺🇦 вирішальний

🇵🇱 decydujący

🇯🇵 決定的な (けっていてきな)

🇫🇷 décisif

🇪🇸 decisivo

🇹🇷 kararlı

🇰🇷 결정적인 (gyeoljeongjeogin)

🇸🇦 حاسِم

🇨🇿 rozhodující

🇸🇰 rozhodujúci

🇨🇳 决定性的 (juédìng xìng de)

🇸🇮 odločilen

🇮🇸 ákveðinn

🇰🇿 шешуші

🇬🇪 გადამწყვეტი (gadamyts'q'veti)

🇦🇿 qəti

🇲🇽 decisivo

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,393 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.